Charity registration number 207478 (England and Wales)
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
| Custodian Holding Trustees | Mr D Hearn | |
|---|---|---|
| Mrs C Sawyer | ||
| Mrs J Ryan | (Resigned 09/11/2024) | |
| Mrs G Devries | (Appointed 09/11/2024) | |
| Trustees | Dr R Amos | |
| Mrs D Clement | (Resigned 09/11/2024) | |
| Mrs G Devries | (Resigned 09/11/2024) | |
| Mr T Freeth | ||
| Professor J Galloway | ||
| Mr D Haselgrove | (Appointed 09/11/2024) | |
| Mr B Worsley | ||
| Mr P Liverman | ||
| Mr D Morris | (Resigned 09/11/2024) | |
| Mr M Rogerson | (Resigned 09/11/2024) | |
| Mr M Jeffrery | ||
| Ms B Marshall | (Appointed 09/11/2024) | |
| Mrs S Petitt | (Appointed 22/03/2025) | |
| Director | Mr A M Bryan | |
| President | Dr R Amos | |
| Treasurer | Professor J Galloway | |
| Charity number | 207478 | |
| Principal address | AGS Centre | |
| Avon Bank | ||
| Pershore | ||
| Worcestershire | ||
| WR10 3JP | ||
| Auditor | Kendall Wadley LLP | |
| Merevale House | ||
| 27 Sansome Walk | ||
| Worcester | ||
| WR1 1NU | ||
| Bankers | HSBC | |
| PO Box 4 | ||
| 6 Broad Street | ||
| Worcester | ||
| WR1 2EJ |
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Trustees' report | 1 - 5 |
| Statement of trustees' responsibilities | 6 |
| Independent auditor's report | 7 - 9 |
| Statement of financial activities | 10 - 11 |
| Balance sheet | 12 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 13 - 30 |
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
TRUSTEES' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2025.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the Society's Trust Deed, the Charities Act 2011 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019).
Objectives and activities
The objects are set out in Clause 3 of the Constitution, namely to:
Educate the public and its members about the cultivation and conservation of alpine plants.
This will include:
• To gather and disseminate details of their cultivation and conditions under which they grow in nature by means of a Journal - presently entitled The Alpine Gardener - and by other special publications
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To hold shows of alpine plants
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To give advice on any matters concerning these plants
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To organise scientific botanical and horticultural expeditions to study alpines in native habitats
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To promote research into alpines and their cultivation
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To arrange tours and visits
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To organise meetings and Conferences
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To promote the formation of Local and Special Interest Groups of the Society
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To award grants for travel, study or scientific/educational purposes and also relevant conservation initiatives
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To undertake any activities that shall be consistent with the purpose for which the Society is constituted.
Public benefit
The trustees have paid due regard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the Society should undertake and ensuring that it provides benefit to the public.
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Achievements and performance
Following successful work in previous years to place the Society’s finances on a more sustainable, long-term basis, the priority of the Board is to now grow the Society, in terms of both members and charitable activities. All decisions taken by the Board are in pursuit of this agenda, having due regard to the Society’s charitable objectives, the need to provide a public benefit through all its activities and to Charity Commission guidance on how the AGS should conduct itself.
The charity continues to organise around 20 shows at venues around the UK and Ireland. These shows are open to the public and, in addition to competitive displays of alpines, are encouraged to feature practical demonstrations and lectures. Leading in this regard is the Early Spring Plant Fair, a much larger event than the Society’s traditional shows. The aim is to raise public awareness of alpines and to provide free information on how to cultivate these plants and their conservation status in the wild.
Other educational events have also taken place, including the activity weekend (specifically targeted at younger horticulturalists and focused on fieldwork botany), one-day events such as the Snowdrop Day. A new workshop series has been launched, educating members and the public about specific genera or cultivation techniques, and the Society continues to run its autumn series of Zoom lectures, the majority of which are fully subscribed.
The Society’s website has undergone significant changes to make the information it contains more accessible. In addition to information about the charity’s events, it contains approximately 54,000 images, links to the Society’s online encyclopaedia and hosts a series of educational series of diaries, including one from the student on the AGS trainee scheme, another key charitable activity.
Tours are now run in partnership with Viranatura, allowing the AGS to continue to facilitate tours around the world to learn how alpines grow in the wild, aiding their cultivation at home, but in a way that has significantly reduced the administrative and cost burden on the charity. These tours often have subsidised places for students and other horticultural trainees.
Redevelopment of the Society’s garden at Pershore is ongoing, with current projects including work to establish ‘alpines for wildlife’ features (e.g. to encourage pollinators) and a new disabled access bed. New collections of cyclamen and saxifraga have also been established. All these features advance the Society’s educational, conservation and cultivation charitable objectives. Work is also planned on the Society’s office buildings. Specifically, work has begun on turning the back building into an event space. This will be a significant asset to the charity, allowing it to host events in its own premises, make the space freely available to local groups and raise venue by hiring it out to other organisations.
After a hiatus due to COVID, the Society has begun to enter major RHS shows again. With recent success including a Silver-Gilt at Chelsea (2025) and a Gold at Malvern Spring (2026). Gardens are now designed specifically to educate the public about how they can grow alpines at home, and the importance of the Society’s work in promoting their cultivation and conservation. Participation in such events is always carefully considered to ensure that they represent a sound investment for the Society.
The Society benefits from a network of local groups around the UK and Ireland. Increased efforts are being made to support these as they continue to recover from the effects of the pandemic. Specific measures include the free provision of publicity materials, free advertisement on the Society’s website and the Local Activity Support Grant.
A series of other grants, namely the Small Project Conservation Grant, Travel Grant and Hendry Grant, are also offered by the AGS. Anyone may apply for these, with criteria centred on the Society’s charitable objectives of promoting education, conservation and cultivation.
While the Seed Exchange has been more limited since Brexit, it continues to be a valuable asset for the Society; one that promotes cultivation and conservation through the distribution of seed. Work is ongoing to see if we can make it easier for overseas members to participate in the Exchange in a cost-effective manner.
The journal is another core asset of the Society that delivers on its charitable objectives. Digitalisation has been a great success, with many members who prefer a hard copy also taking advantage of the option to receive these at-cost. The Society is also now acting on plans to establish a new scientific journal, which will be of significant educational value and an opportunity to showcase the conservation work that it supports.
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Financial review
During the year the charity had incoming resources totalling £361,707 (2024 - £220,749), of which £87,587 (2024 - £98,091) was from membership subscriptions.
Total resources expended for the year were £312,368 (2024 - £380,032), giving net incoming (2024 - outgoing) resources of £49,339 (2024 - £159,283) before investment movements.
There are realised gains of £4,104 (2024 - gains of £1,520) and unrealised gains of £6,505 (2024 - gains of £101,438) arising on the investment assets resulting in a increase in funds of £59,948 (2024 - decrease of £56,325), leaving total reserves at £1,988,951 (2024 - £1,929,003).
Of the total funds £290,960 (2024 - £202,960) is restricted in nature, details are provided in the notes to the financial statements, a further £329,699 (2024 - £327,513) has been designated by the trustees for specific purposes, again details are provided in the notes to the financial statements.
This leaves, after allowing intangible fixed assets and for funds that could only be realised upon the sale of tangible fixed assets £1,082,860 (2024 - £1,133,166) as free reserves for the purpose of undertaking the charitable activities.
It is the policy of the Society that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a specific use (ie general funds) should be maintained at a level equivalent to between six and twelve month’s expenditure. The trustees consider that reserves at this level will ensure that, in the event of a significant drop in funding, they will be able to continue the Society’s current activities while consideration is given to ways in which additional funds may be raised. This level of reserves has been maintained throughout the year, the excess funds are used to advance the cultivation and conservation of alpine plants as set out in the objectives of the charity.
The committee have power, from time to time, after taking advice from a Member of the London Stock Exchange, to direct the holding trustees concerned to invest the funds of the Society or any part thereof in any way which, in its absolute discretion, thinks fit, in all respects as if it were a sole Beneficial Owner of such funds notwithstanding that such investments may not be investments authorised by law for the investment of funds, and the committee shall have power, from time to time, to direct the holding trustees to vary or transpose such investments.
The holding trustees may also enter into arrangements for the provision of investment management services by stockbrokers, merchant banks and/or suitably qualified investments managers (which may include power for such managers to make specific investment decisions under general policy guidelines laid down from time to time by the committee) to vary or change such arrangements and to pay reasonable charges for such services out of the Society's income.
Market conditions have enabled the investments held by the AGS to perform well during the past year, as can be seen in the financial review narrative. The investments comprise UK Government Fixed Interest Bonds, UK Unit Trusts and shares in subsidiary companies.
The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the Society is exposed, and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks.
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Plans for the future
The charity intends to continue with its regular activities in pursuit of its Objectives. This will entail organizing shows (particularly attempting to seek out venues that will attract new visitors), tours, travel awards and grants, educational exhibits (especially at major national and regional shows), workshops, the seed exchange scheme and publication of its quarterly journal ‘The Alpine Gardener’. The Trustee Board recognises that the Society must focus on attracting new members and explore new initiatives to ensure its long-term future. The Society will continue to publish information on alpine plants across various social media platforms, thereby reaching a wider audience.
The Society is extremely grateful for donations received in the year. Such funds are used to support specific alpine related projects, including further expansion of the 'Encyclopaedia of Alpines' and continuing to disseminate information as widely as possible, through our website and social media.
The Society will continue to provide grants to assist the study of horticulture and also intends to actively seek to identify other suitable conservation projects that it can support.
Structure, governance and management
The Alpine Garden Society (AGS) was founded in 1929, with the aim of promoting an interest in all aspects of alpine plants, their cultivation in rock gardens and plant conservation in natural habitats. It is a membership organisation, registered with the Charity Commission and is governed by its constitution and rules adopted 4 November 1966, as amended November 2011.
The trustees who served during the year are listed on the Legal and Administrative Information page.
The Charity's present governing body comprises 9 Trustees; 4 of these are Officers who are elected annually, serving for a potential maximum of ten years under the Constitution adopted at the AGM in November 2011 and later amended in November 2013.
Under this Constitution changes were made to the number of trustees elected annually to create a smaller governing body. The aim of this change was to enable the Society to manage its affairs more effectively.
Currently there are two trustees elected each year to serve for a period of four years, plus a President, Treasurer and up to four other officers who will also be trustees, giving a maximum number of 14 trustees.
Trustee vacancies are advertised in the Society’s Newsletter that is circulated to all members, both home and overseas. Nominations are invited and the names of nominated candidates, together with supporting statements, are published in the Society Newsletter. If there are more nominations than vacancies, a vote is taken by secret ballot at the AGM. Casual vacancies that arise may be filled by co-option if it is felt to be necessary.
An annual Induction Day is organised for all newly elected Trustees and Officers (they are provided with a list of Trustees’ duties and responsibilities, the Charity Commission ‘Good Trustee Guide’, Declaration of Eligibility, together with the Society’s ‘Code of Conduct’ for Trustees).
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
The governing body is known as the ‘Trustee Board’ upon which all Trustees (excluding Custodian Trustees) serve. The Board is chaired by the President of the Society. The policy and strategy of the Charity are set by the Trustee Board. The number of standing committees reporting to the Board has been reduced and the majority of Society business and that of its subsidiary trading companies is now dealt with directly by the Board. This ensures that every Trustee is fully involved in financial, decisions, budget setting and Society activities as a whole. The only remaining committee deals with the operation of the Society’s competitive shows. In addition, the Trustee Board may, from time to time, establish working parties to pursue special initiatives such as marketing, website development, educational conferences, displays and specific plant related projects.
The Society has 42 Affiliated Local Groups spread around the UK. Support is offered to the Groups in the form of insurance cover, stationery, publicity material, programme printing, mail shots and free hosting for their own website area. Grants may be given to assist with the cost of speakers or to help with the purchase of equipment.
Specialist Group - The History of Rock and Alpine gardening Group (HORAG) is open to all members of the Society.
The Charity employs two full-time staff who deal with the administration of the Charity as well as its limited companies. The Society employs a professional Editor who has specific responsibility for publication of the Society journal and other society publications. The Society Editor is an ex-officio member of the Trustee Board and other relevant working parties. The post of web and Social Media Editor also carries ex officio membership. The Society Director also serves as an ex-officio member of the Trustee Board and any other relevant committees or working groups. The Society Director is responsible for the implementation of the policies laid down by the Board. In addition to overseeing the administration of the Charity and its subsidiary companies, he gives guidance, advice and support to Officers and Trustees on governance issues. He is also Company Secretary to the limited companies.
Related parties
During 2025 the Society conducted the majority of its trading activities through two wholly owned subsidiary companies – A.G.S . Publications Limited and AGS Expeditions Limited. The management of these companies is controlled by directors, namely the President, Treasurer and any relevant officer, together with the three Society Custodian Holding Trustees who hold the shares in trust on behalf of the charity.
The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.
Dr R Amos
Trustee Dated: 27 May 2026
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the accounts in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the trustees to prepare accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Society and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the Society for that year.
In preparing these accounts, the trustees are required to:
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select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
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observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;
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make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the accounts; and
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prepare the accounts on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation.
The trustees are responsible for keeping sufficient accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Society and enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Alpine Garden Society (the ‘Society’) for the year ended 31 August 2025 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
In our opinion, the financial statements:
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give a true and fair view of the state of the charity’s affairs as at 31 August 2025 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, for the year then ended;
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have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
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have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Society in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the Society’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
Other information
The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:
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the information given in the financial statements is inconsistent in any material respect with the trustees' report; or
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sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or
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the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or
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we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
Responsibilities of trustees
As explained more fully in the statement of trustees' responsibilities, the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the Society’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.
Extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud
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an understanding of the risk assessment process (including the assessment of the risk of fraud) adopted by the Board is obtained and their attitude to risk ascertained.
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an assessment of the susceptibility to material mis-statement of the financial statements as a result of management over-ride or fraud is made.
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it is ensured that the engagement team have, collectively, the appropriate competence, capabilities and skills to be involved in the assignment, are fully briefed and understand the risks specific to the charity.
Audit response to risks identified
The information obtained through the assessment to risk procedures is reviewed and the following work undertaken:
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processes to test the outcomes of our assessment include analytical review, the relevance and accuracy of significant accounting estimates, substantive testing of significant transactions, work to identify unusual or unexpected accounting entries including the testing of journal entries, information disclosed in the financial statements is traced to supporting documentation. In all instances it is acknowledged that material mis-statements that arise from fraud may involve deliberate concealment or collusion and are, therefore, by their very nature harder to detect than those arising from error.
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an understanding of the legal and regulatory framework as applicable to the charity is obtained together with knowledge of the procedures put in place by the charity in order to comply with the same.
It should be noted that Auditing standards limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the directors and other management and the inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any.
A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https:// www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
Other matters
Your attention is drawn to the fact that the charity has prepared financial statements in accordance with "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (as amended) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has now been withdrawn.
This has been done in order for the financial statements to provide a true and fair view in accordance with current Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.
Use of our report
This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity’s trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Sarah Morley BA (Hons) ACA (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Kendall Wadley LLP 27 May 2026
Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditor
Merevale House 27 Sansome Walk Worcester WR1 1NU
Kendall Wadley LLP is eligible for appointment as auditor of the Society by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| Current financial year Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Notes £ £ Income from: Donations and legacies 3 169,530 85,000 Other trading activity 4 49,838 - Investments 5 50,515 6,824 Total income 269,883 91,824 Expenditure on: Raising funds 6 35,145 - Charitable activities 7 272,070 5,153 Total expenditure 307,215 5,153 Net gains on investments 13 9,280 1,329 Net income/(expenditure) and movement in funds (28,052) 88,000 Reconciliation of funds: Fund balances at 1 September 2024 1,726,043 202,960 Fund balances at 31 August 2025 1,697,991 290,960 |
Total 2025 £ 254,530 49,838 57,339 361,707 35,145 277,223 312,368 10,609 59,948 1,929,003 1,988,951 |
Total 2024 £ 100,236 64,005 56,508 220,749 57,657 322,375 380,032 102,958 (56,325) 1,985,328 1,929,003 |
|---|---|---|
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED) INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| Prior financial year Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Notes £ £ Income from: Donations and legacies 3 100,236 - Charitable activities 4 64,005 - Investments 5 50,822 5,686 Total income 215,063 5,686 Expenditure on: Raising funds 6 57,657 - Charitable activities 7 315,669 6,706 Total expenditure 373,326 6,706 Net gains/(losses) on investments 13 90,068 12,890 Net income/(expenditure) and movement in funds (68,195) 11,870 Reconciliation of funds: Fund balances at 1 September 2023 1,794,238 191,090 Fund balances at 31 August 2024 1,726,043 202,960 |
Total 2024 £ 100,236 64,005 56,508 220,749 57,657 322,375 380,032 102,958 (56,325) 1,985,328 1,929,003 |
|---|---|
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 AUGUST 2025
| Notes Fixed assets Intangible assets 14 Tangible assets 15 Investments 16 Current assets Stocks 18 Debtors 19 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 20 Net current assets Total net assets The funds of the Society Restricted income funds 22 Unrestricted funds 23 |
2025 £ £ 32,036 260,776 1,585,873 1,878,685 18,265 25,206 93,831 137,302 (27,036) 110,266 1,988,951 290,960 1,697,991 1,988,951 |
2024 £ £ 6,120 267,034 1,605,265 1,878,419 18,441 27,440 44,729 90,610 (40,026) 50,584 1,929,003 202,960 1,726,043 1,929,003 |
2024 £ £ 6,120 267,034 1,605,265 1,878,419 18,441 27,440 44,729 90,610 (40,026) 50,584 1,929,003 202,960 1,726,043 1,929,003 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,878,419 50,584 |
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| 1,929,003 | |||
| 202,960 1,726,043 |
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| 1,929,003 |
The financial statements were approved by the trustees on 27 May 2026
Dr R Amos Trustee
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
1 Accounting policies
Charity information
The Alpine Garden Society (AGS) was founded in 1929, with the aim of promoting an interest in all aspects of alpine plants, their cultivation in rock gardens and plant conversation in natural habitats. It is a membership organisation, registered in England and Wales and the Charity Commission and is governed by its constitution and rules adopted 4 November 1966, as amended November 2011. The registered office is A G S Centre, Avon Bank, Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 3JP.
1.1 Accounting convention
The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Society's consitution, the Charities Act 2011 and “Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)” (as amended for accounting periods commencing from 1 January 2019). The Society is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the Society. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include the revaluation of certain categories of tangible fixed assets and financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
1.2 Going concern
At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Society has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future and there are no material uncertainties about its ability to continue. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.
1.3 Charitable funds
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.
Designated funds comprise funds which have been set aside at the discretion of the trustees for specific purposes. The purposes and uses of the designated funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.
Restricted funds are those funds representing unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes.
1.4 Income
Income is recognised when the Society is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.
Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the Society has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.
Subscriptions are accounted for net of VAT and are recognised in the accounts on a renewals basis.
Donations are accounted for gross when received.
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ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
1 Accounting policies
(Continued)
Investment income is accounted for based on the dividends and interest receivable for the year. Investment income is recognised in the accounts when amounts become payable.
Sundry sales are accounted for net of VAT and are recognised at the point of sale.
Advertising income is accounted for net of VAT and is recognised at the date of publications.
For legacies, entitlement is taken as the earlier of the date on which either: the charity is aware that probate has been granted, the estate has been finalised and notification has been made by the executor(s) to the Trust that a distribution will be made, or when a distribution is received from the estate. Receipt of a legacy, in whole or in part, is only considered probable when the amount can be measured reliably and the charity has been notified of the executor’s intention to make a distribution. Where legacies have been notified to the charity, or the charity is aware of the granting of probate, and the criteria for income recognition have not been met, then the legacy is a treated as a contingent asset and disclosed if material.
1.5 Expenditure
Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.
Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.
Costs are allocated between costs of generating funds and charitable expenditure according to the nature of the cost. Where items involve more than one category they are apportioned on the basis of staff time as appropriate.
1.6 Intangible fixed assets
Intangible assets relate to website development and are are recognised at cost and are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.
Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:
Website
5 years straight line
1.7 Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.
Fixed assets for charity use are capitalised at cost if over £500, where acquired or market value as determined by the trustees when donated. They are stated in the accounts at cost or valuation less depreciation.
Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost or valuation of the fixed assets, less their estimated residual value over their expected useful lives on an individual basis.
- 14 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
1 Accounting policies
(Continued)
Leasehold property Straight line over 10 and 20 years Trophies and medals At valuation - not depreciated Fixtures & fittings 25% reducing balance Computers Straight line over 5 years Library At valuation - not depreciated Glasshouse Straight line over 25 years
The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.
1.8 Fixed asset investments
Fixed asset investments are initially measured at transaction price excluding transaction costs, and are subsequently measured at fair value at each reporting date. Changes in fair value are recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year. Transaction costs are expensed as incurred.
A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the Society. Control is the power to govern the financial and operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities.
1.9 Impairment of fixed assets
At each reporting end date, the Society reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).
1.10 Stocks
Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition. Items held for distribution at no or nominal consideration are measured the lower of replacement cost and cost.
Net realisable value is the estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.
1.11 Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, and other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.
1.12 Financial instruments
The Society has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.
Financial instruments are recognised in the Society's balance sheet when the Society becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
- 15 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
1 Accounting policies
(Continued)
Basic financial assets
Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.
Basic financial liabilities
Basic financial liabilities, including creditors are initially recognised at transaction price. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.
Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the Society’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
1.13 Employee benefits
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.
1.14 Retirement benefits
The Society operates a defined contributions pension scheme. Contributions are charged in the accounts as they become payable in accordance with the rules of the scheme.
1.15 Life membership
Subscriptions of life membership are included in the balance sheet as deferred income and released to the Statement of Financial Activities over 15 years.
1.16 Operating leases
Rentals payable under operating leases are charged against income on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.
2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements
In the application of the Society’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.
Critical judgements
As described in note 15 trophies and the Library are carried at valuation. The trustees have reviewed the valuations and impaired the class of asset as appropriate to reflect their estimation of the current value.
- 16 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
3 Voluntary income
| Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 £ £ Donations and gifts 604 - Legacies receivable 81,339 85,000 Membership fees 87,587 - 169,530 85,000 |
Total Unrestricted funds 2025 2024 £ £ 604 2,052 166,339 93 87,587 98,091 254,530 100,236 |
Total Unrestricted funds 2025 2024 £ £ 604 2,052 166,339 93 87,587 98,091 254,530 100,236 |
|---|---|---|
| 100,236 |
- 17 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
4 Activities for generating funds
| Advertising income - Bulletins Seeds MerchandiseConferences & Events Zoom lectures Show donations Bad debts Total 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025 £ £ £ £ £ £ £ £ Sale of goods 2,098 6,727 94 10,779 - 24,458 (3,366) 40,790 Other income - - - - 316 - - 316 Books and publications - - 8,732 - - - - 8,732 2,098 6,727 8,826 10,779 316 24,458 (3,366) 49,838 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds 2,098 6,727 8,826 10,779 316 24,458 (3,366) 49,838 For the year ended 31 August 2024 Advertising income - Bulletins Seeds MerchandiseConferences & Events Zoom lectures Show donations Bad debts Sale of goods 16,443 7,206 96 21,703 - 28,592 (10,739) Other income - - - - 704 - - 16,443 7,206 96 21,703 704 28,592 (10,739) Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds 16,443 7,206 96 21,703 704 28,592 (10,739) |
Total 2024 £ 63,301 704 - |
|---|---|
| 64,005 | |
| 64,005 | |
| Total 2024 63,301 704 |
|
| 64,005 | |
| 64,005 |
- 18 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
5 Investment income
| Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 £ £ Income receivable under deed of covenants - - Interest and dividends receivable 50,515 6,824 50,515 6,824 |
Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2024 2024 £ £ £ - 1,804 - 57,339 49,018 5,686 57,339 50,822 5,686 |
Total 2024 £ 1,804 54,704 |
|---|---|---|
| 56,508 |
6 Raising funds
| Unrestricted | Unrestricted | |
|---|---|---|
| funds | funds | |
| 2025 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Direct costs of activities | ||
| Seed distribution | 1,792 | 2,274 |
| Show expenditure | 21,090 | 28,866 |
| Conferences | 9,593 | 26,517 |
| Book costs | 2,670 | - |
| 35,145 | 57,657 |
- 19 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
7 Charitable activities
| Charitable | Charitable | |
|---|---|---|
| objectives | objectives | |
| 2025 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Staff costs | 95,627 | 114,889 |
| Depreciation and amortisation | 7,788 | 7,650 |
| Bulletins | 15,924 | 29,375 |
| Newsletter | - | 1,207 |
| Awards and prizes | 22,509 | 20,229 |
| Headquarters garden | 6,620 | 8,616 |
| Promotion | 387 | 243 |
| Advertising | 5,070 | 6,043 |
| 153,925 | 188,252 | |
| Share of support costs (see note 8) | 117,970 | 129,054 |
| Share of governance costs (see note 8) | 5,328 | 5,069 |
| 277,223 | 322,375 | |
| Analysis by fund | ||
| Unrestricted funds | 272,070 | 315,669 |
| Restricted funds | 5,153 | 6,706 |
| 277,223 | 322,375 |
- 20 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
8 Support costs
| Staff costs Heat, lighting, rates and water Insurance Telephone Printing and Stationery Postage Computer costs Accounts and payroll Bookkeeping Travelling Maintenance to property Sundry Bank charges AGM expenses Audit Analysed between Charitable activities |
Support costs Governance costs £ £ 43,410 - 4,619 - 9,278 - 3,723 - 2,263 - 4,275 - 21,482 - 2,560 - 7,713 - 6,492 - 1,530 - 4,500 - 6,125 - - 328 - 5,000 117,970 5,328 117,970 5,328 |
2025Support costs Governance costs £ £ £ 43,410 53,251 - 4,619 8,428 - 9,278 8,511 - 3,723 4,563 - 2,263 1,898 - 4,275 2,485 - 21,482 29,341 - 2,560 1,084 - 7,713 - - 6,492 7,465 - 1,530 1,402 - 4,500 3,725 - 6,125 6,901 328 - 1,169 5,000 - 3,900 123,298 129,054 5,069 123,298 129,054 5,069 |
2024 £ 53,251 8,428 8,511 4,563 1,898 2,485 29,341 1,084 - 7,465 1,402 3,725 6,901 1,169 3,900 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 134,123 | |||
| 134,123 |
Governance costs includes payments to the auditors of £5,000 (2024: £3,900) in respect of audit fees.
9 Trustees
None of the trustees, or any persons connected with them received any remuneration during the year, but 7 were reimbursed expenses related to travel of £1,315 (2024 - 5 trustees, £2,009).
- 21 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
10 Employees
Number of employees
The average monthly number of employees during the year was:
| Administration Publications Employment costs Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs |
2025 Number 2 2 4 2025 £ 123,210 8,131 7,696 139,037 |
2024 Number 2 3 |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | ||
| 2024 £ 148,532 9,559 10,049 |
||
| 168,140 |
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was £60,000 or more.
All employees are considered to be key management personnel.
11 Retirement benefit schemes
| Retirement benefit schemes | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | |
| Defined contribution schemes | £ | £ |
| Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes | 7,696 | 10,049 |
The Society operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Society in an independently administered fund.
12 Taxation
The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.
- 22 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
13 Net gains on investments
| Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 £ £ Revaluation of investments 5,690 815 Gain on sale of investments 3,590 514 9,280 1,329 |
Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2024 2024 £ £ £ 6,505 88,733 12,705 4,104 1,335 185 10,609 90,068 12,890 |
Total 2024 £ 101,438 1,520 |
|---|---|---|
| 102,958 |
14 Intangible fixed assets
| Cost At 1 September 2024 Additions At 31 August 2025 Amortisation At 1 September 2024 Amortisation charged for the year At 31 August 2025 Carrying amount At 31 August 2025 At 31 August 2024 |
Website £ 102,391 27,446 |
|---|---|
| 129,837 | |
| 96,271 1,530 |
|
| 97,801 | |
| 32,036 | |
| 6,120 |
- 23 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| 15 Tangible fixed assets Leasehold property Trophies and medals Fixtures & fittings Computers £ £ £ £ Cost or valuation At 1 September 2024 198,211 25,000 101,568 1,064 Disposals - - (66,944) - At 31 August 2025 198,211 25,000 34,624 1,064 Depreciation At 1 September 2024 57,709 - 98,321 301 Depreciation charged in the year 2,231 - 811 213 Eliminated in respect of disposals - - (66,944) - At 31 August 2025 59,940 - 32,188 514 Carrying amount At 31 August 2025 138,271 25,000 2,436 550 At 31 August 2024 140,502 25,000 3,247 763 |
Library Glasshouse £ £ 40,470 75,070 - - 40,470 75,070 - 18,018 - 3,003 - - - 21,021 40,470 54,049 40,470 57,052 |
Total £ 441,383 (66,944) 374,439 174,349 6,258 (66,944) 113,663 260,776 267,034 |
|---|---|---|
- 24 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
15 Tangible fixed assets
(Continued)
The Trophies and Medals were valued in December 2008 at £79,258 by Tower Trophies, an independent valuer for insurance purposes. The Trustees of the Society have considered the valuation and in 2023 they recognised an impairment of this class of asset of £54,258.
The Library books were valued in October 2015 by Mike Park Limited, specialists in gardening, botany and natural history books. The trustees believe that this valuation is not materially different to that as at 31 August 2016 under the transitional provisions of FRS 102, these values were considered to be deemed cost.
16 Fixed asset investments
| Listed investments Other investments £ Cost or valuation At 1 September 2024 1,605,259 6 Valuation changes 6,504 - Gain on disposal 4,104 - Disposals (30,000) - At 31 August 2025 1,585,867 6 Carrying amount At 31 August 2025 1,585,867 6 At 31 August 2024 1,605,259 6 2025 Other investments comprise: Notes £ Investments in subsidiaries 6 |
Total £ 1,605,265 6,504 4,104 (30,000) |
|---|---|
| 1,585,873 | |
| 1,585,873 | |
| 1,605,265 | |
| 2024 £ 6 |
The subsidiary undertakings are A.G.S. Publications Limited and AGS Expeditions Limited. The holdings are both 100%, both companies are incorporated in England & Wales.
A.G.S. Publications Limited held net assets at the year end of £3 (2024: £3) and made no profit or loss in this or the prior year.
AGS Expeditions Limited held net liabilities of £605 (2024: net assets of £5,003) and made a loss of £5,608 (2024: £Nil).
| 17 | Financial instruments | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||
| Carrying amount of financial assets | |||
| Instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss | 1,585,867 | 1,605,259 |
- 25 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| 18 Stocks Finished goods and goods for resale 19 Debtors Amounts falling due within one year: Amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income 20 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Notes Other taxation and social security Deferred income 21 Trade creditors Amounts owed to subsidiary undertakings Other creditors Accruals 21 Deferred income Arising from Shows and events |
2025 £ 18,265 2025 £ 2,184 888 22,134 25,206 2025 £ 1,440 2,310 4,607 - 4,065 14,614 27,036 2025 £ 2,310 |
2024 £ 18,441 |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 £ 205 7,481 19,754 |
||
| 27,440 | ||
| 2024 £ 2,832 879 8,824 4,611 8,919 13,961 |
||
| 40,026 | ||
| 2024 £ 879 |
The deferred income represents advanced bookings for forthcoming conferences, events and advertising. This income will be released and recognised in the following year when the performance conditions have been met.
- 26 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
22 Restricted funds
The income funds of the charity include restricted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes:
| Balance at 1 September 2023 r £ E F Hendry Bequest 178,127 Wilsher Fund 4,763 Alpine House 8,200 D Grant - 191,090 |
Movement in funds Incoming esources Resources expended Investments gains/losses Balance at 1 September 2024 r £ £ £ £ 5,547 (5,564) 12,596 190,706 139 (732) 294 4,464 - (410) - 7,790 - - - - 5,686 (6,706) 12,890 202,960 |
Movement in funds Incoming esources Resources expended Investments gains/losses Balance at 31 August 2025 £ £ £ £ 6,671 (4,464) 1,299 194,212 153 (279) 30 4,368 - (410) - 7,380 85,000 - - 85,000 91,824 (5,153) 1,329 290,960 |
Movement in funds Incoming esources Resources expended Investments gains/losses Balance at 31 August 2025 £ £ £ £ 6,671 (4,464) 1,299 194,212 153 (279) 30 4,368 - (410) - 7,380 85,000 - - 85,000 91,824 (5,153) 1,329 290,960 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 290,960 |
E F Hendry Bequest Fund - The monies are to be used to advance and promote the charitable activities of Alpine Garden Society for the benefit of the East Surrey Group.
Wilsher Fund - The monies are to be used to advance and promote the charitable activities of Alpine Garden Society for the benefit of the Bedfordshire Group.
Alpine House - funds received for the construction of Alpine House in the Society garden.
D Grant - legacy received towards publications.
- 27 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
23 Unrestricted funds
The income funds of the charity include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.
| At 1 | Incoming | Resources | Gains and | At 31 August | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| September | resources | expended | losses | 2025 | ||
| 2024 | ||||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Stirt Piggin AGS Centre | ||||||
| Memorial | 24,836 | - | - | 166 | 25,002 | |
| Major Projects Fund | 158,495 | - | - | 1,058 | 159,553 | |
| Anthony Pettit AGS Centre | ||||||
| Fund | 144,182 | - | - | 962 | 145,144 | |
| General funds | 1,398,530 | 269,883 | (307,215) | 7,094 | 1,368,292 | |
| 1,726,043 | 269,883 | (307,215) | 9,280 | 1,697,991 | ||
| Previous year: | At 1 | Incoming | Resources | Gains and | At 31 August | |
| September | resources | expended | losses | 2024 | ||
| 2023 | ||||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Stirt Piggin AGS Centre | ||||||
| Memorial | 23,511 | - | - | 1,325 | 24,836 | |
| Major Projects Fund | 149,358 | - | - | 9,137 | 158,495 | |
| Anthony Pettit AGS Centre | ||||||
| Fund | 135,941 | - | - | 8,241 | 144,182 | |
| General funds | 1,485,428 | 215,063 | (373,326) | 71,365 | 1,398,530 | |
| 1,794,238 | 215,063 | (373,326) | 90,068 | 1,726,043 | ||
| Analysis of net assets between | funds | |||||
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total | ||||
| funds | funds | |||||
| 2025 | 2025 | 2025 | ||||
| £ | £ | £ | ||||
| At 31 August 2025: | ||||||
| Intangible fixed assets | 32,036 | - | 32,036 | |||
| Tangible assets | 253,396 | 7,380 | 260,776 | |||
| Investments | 1,387,293 | 198,580 | 1,585,873 | |||
| Current assets/(liabilities) | 25,266 | 85,000 | 110,266 | |||
| 1,697,991 | 290,960 | 1,988,951 |
24 Analysis of net assets between funds
- 28 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
24 Analysis of net assets between funds
| Analysis of net assets between funds | (Continued) | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total | |
| funds | funds | ||
| 2024 | 2024 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| At 31 August 2024: | |||
| Intangible fixed assets | 6,120 | - | 6,120 |
| Tangible assets | 259,244 | 7,790 | 267,034 |
| Investments | 1,410,095 | 195,170 | 1,605,265 |
| Current assets/(liabilities) | 50,584 | - | 50,584 |
| 1,726,043 | 202,960 | 1,929,003 |
25 Operating lease commitments
Lessee
The operating leases are for administrative equipment with a maximum lease of 5 years the costs of which are paid on a quarterly basis.
At the reporting end date the Society had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:
| Within one year Between two and five years |
2025 £ 1,776 1,775 3,551 |
2024 £ 1,776 3,551 |
|---|---|---|
| 5,327 |
- 29 -
ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
26 Related party transactions
Transactions with related parties
A.G.S. Publications Limited
A.G.S. Publications Limited's net assets are to be distributed to the charity on being wound up. At the balance sheet date A.G.S. Publications Limited owed the Alpine Garden Society £133 (2024: £205).
At the period end there was no profit to covenant from A.G.S. Publications Limited to the Alpine Garden Society (2024: £nil).
No recharge (2024: £300) has been made by the Alpine Garden Society in respect of time spent by staff on the administration of activities for the year.
AGS Expeditions Limited
During the period, AGS Expeditions Limited advanced funds to Alpine Garden Society, the amount owed to AGS Expeditions Limited at the year end was £2,052 (2024: £4,611 owed from Alpine Garden Society).
£nil (2024: £2,000) has been made by the Alpine Garden Society in respect of time spent by staff on the administration of the tours undertaken in the year.
At the period end there was no profit (2024: £1,804) to covenant to Alpine Garden Society.
27 Contingent Asset
The Charity has been made aware of legacies that are yet to be received of which the amount and timing are currently unknown.
- 30 -